Big Island photographer's lava image goes viral

Kawika Singson is a self-admitted daredevil photographer who routinely heads out to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to capture some astounding images.

However, it's a photo of him, not by him, that is gaining worldwide attention. The image, shot by a friend, captures Singson standing atop a lava flow, behind his camera. His shoes and tripod are ablaze.

Thousands have seen the photo, and while most have expressed amazement, some are skeptical about whether it's real or not.

"There are a lot of skeptics saying it's Photoshop" said Singson to Hawaii News Now.

The photo is real, but the flames are not the result of spontaneous combustion.

"The flames on the tripod and my shoes did not start because of the lava" Singson freely admits. "It's like if you put your shoe in a hot frying pan, it will not catch fire right away".

Singson used an accelerant to start the flames then had his buddy snap the shot. The reason?

"It's just something I wanted for my Facebook cover photo".

While people may question Singson's motivations, he says he's an amateur with only a basic understanding of technology and technique.

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